Press Release

‘Pokémon Soda Pop Plush’ Line Releasing Outside of Japan for the First Time, Available Now Exclusively on Pokémon Center

Fan-favorite Pokémon Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle among first to debut as part of the popular retro design-inspired plush collection

Bellevue, Wash. — May 21, 2024 — Today, The Pokémon Company International announced that the popular Pokémon Soda Pop Plush collection has begun launching outside of Japan for the first time, with the Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle versions now available exclusively on Pokémon Center — the premier online destination for official Pokémon merchandise in the U.S.Canada and the U.K.
 
Designed in collaboration with Japanese illustrator and graphic designer F*Kaori, the Pokémon Soda Pop Plush line reimagines fan-favorite Pokémon with retro-inspired designs and fun pops of color, offering a nostalgic style that appeals to lifelong fans while giving young Trainers a cute and cuddly introduction to the beloved Pokémon brand.
 
“There is significant interest from Pokémon fans for unique, collectible merchandise originating in Japan, and the Pokémon Soda Pop Plush line is one of those special collections which resonates with fans around the world,” said Cindy Ruppenthal, senior director of Pokémon Center and e-commerce at The Pokémon Company International. “Pokémon Center is the perfect place to make this cute, popular collection available for the first time outside of Japan as we continue to deliver on our mission to make it the premier destination for premium Pokémon merchandise.”
 
Beginning today, Trainers can add the Kanto-region first partner Pokémon to their collection, including Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle, with new additions coming soon to Pokémon Center.
 
For more information, or to check out the new Pokémon Soda Pop Plush, visit PokemonCenter.com.

###

About Pokémon
The Pokémon Company International, a subsidiary of The Pokémon Company in Japan, manages the property outside of Asia and is responsible for brand management, licensing and marketing, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, the animated TV series, home entertainment, and the official Pokémon website. Pokémon was launched in Japan in 1996 and today is one of the most popular children’s entertainment properties in the world. For more information, visit www.pokemon.com.